Reader’s Digest: Whales Are People Too
June 20, 2012 by Michael Mountain
For the cover story of the Canadian edition of Reader’s Digest for July, Jeff Warren explores what we’re learning about one of the most intelligent and self-aware animals on our planet. His conclusion: The science proves it, but the tough question is going to be whether humans are ready to see them as equals.
Japanese Whalers Retreat Again
March 22, 2012 by Michael Mountain
The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society has declared victory for the whales of the Southern Ocean. Once again, Japan’s whaling fleet has left the Antarctic after collecting just one third of its planned catch for the year.
Big Step Forward for Rights of Dolphins and Whales
February 21, 2012 by Michael Mountain
At the world’s largest science conference, scientists and ethicists presented the case for recognizing dolphins and whales as non-human persons.
How 9/11 Was a Relief for Whales
February 8, 2012 by Michael Mountain
For the rest of the day on September 11, 2001 after the attacks on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, whales in the North Atlantic must have been heaving a huge sigh of relief. They could hear properly again.
Dogs With a Nose for Poop
January 26, 2012 by MichaelMountain
Scientists trying to determine why killer whales are dying off are getting help from dogs; specifically, their keen sense of smell. In Washington State’s Puget Sound, scientists are examining the feces of killer whales to determine if factors such as pollution, boat traffic, and eating habits are to blame for the mammals’ declining population.
Whale and Dolphin Playing Together?
January 25, 2012 by Michael Mountain
Many species interact in the wild, most often as predator and prey. But recent encounters between humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins reveal a playful side to interspecies interaction.
Killing Whales and Giraffes to Save Them
January 24, 2012 by Michael Mountain
Last week, the British Daily Mail reported that people are paying tens of thousands of dollars for the privilege of taking a family expedition to Africa to kill giraffes.
Whale Culture is Real
November 4, 2011 by Michael Mountain
They have the biggest brains on Earth. Their clans have thousands of members, covering thousands of miles. And a new study shows that, yes, they have cultures that are passed down from generation to generation, just like humans.